Gray’s Sedge (Carex grayi)
Gray’s Sedge AKA Bur Sedge, is a host plant to 11 species of butterflies and moths (Illinoiswildflowers.info). This sedge has an interesting fruiting period and is fairly adaptable as to where it will grow. Various birds use the seeds of sedges as an important source of food. Some of the birds that enjoy the Gray’s Sedge seeds are the Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkey, Wood Duck, American Woodcock, and Swamp Sparrow (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Pam Morgan
Gray’s Sedge AKA Bur Sedge, is a host plant to 11 species of butterflies and moths (Illinoiswildflowers.info). This sedge has an interesting fruiting period and is fairly adaptable as to where it will grow. Various birds use the seeds of sedges as an important source of food. Some of the birds that enjoy the Gray’s Sedge seeds are the Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkey, Wood Duck, American Woodcock, and Swamp Sparrow (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Pam Morgan
Gray’s Sedge AKA Bur Sedge, is a host plant to 11 species of butterflies and moths (Illinoiswildflowers.info). This sedge has an interesting fruiting period and is fairly adaptable as to where it will grow. Various birds use the seeds of sedges as an important source of food. Some of the birds that enjoy the Gray’s Sedge seeds are the Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkey, Wood Duck, American Woodcock, and Swamp Sparrow (illinoiswildflower.info).
Photo credit: Pam Morgan
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Partial sun-Medium shade, can tolerate Full sun
Soil Moisture: Wet-Medium
Height: 2-3 feet
Plant Spacing: 1-2 feet
Bloom Time: May-August
Advantages: Bird Favorite, Deer Resistant, Great landscaping plant
Host Plant: 11 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (Illinoiswildflowers.info)
Beneficial for Endangered or Threatened Species: Macoun's arctic (Oeneis macounii) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu) and possibly some others
